Aviation Studies: Aviation Management and Operations

Career - what can you do with an aviation management and operations degree?

BGSU aviation management degree graduates are skilled professionals and leaders who take on managerial and operational challenges within the aviation industry. They work in:

• Air transportation industry
• Airline management fields
• Aircraft brokerage and insurance
• Airport management and operations
• Aviation operations professions

Employers include national, international and Ohio-based airports, airlines, consulting firms, general aviation facilities and businesses with aviation-oriented customers.  

Roles for which BGSU aviation management degree graduates are qualified include:

• Airport operations manager. Oversee day-to-day airport functionality, ensure regulatory compliance and optimize passenger experience. 
• Airline manager. Manage airline logistics, route planning and customer service strategies. 
• Air traffic coordinator. Maintain safe and efficient airspace operations. 
• Aircraft brokerage and insurance specialist. Facilitate the buying, selling and leasing of aircraft while providing clients with tailored aviation insurance coverage to protect their assets and ensure regulatory compliance. 
• Corporate aviation manager. Manage private and business aviation fleets. 
• Aviation consultant. Advise organizations on regulatory policies, technology and efficiency improvements.  

Few careers offer the kind of personal fulfillment and financial rewards that aviation management does:

• A deep-rooted sense of responsibility to ensure safe and efficient aviation operations
• The exhilaration of problem-solving in a fast-paced environment

The global nature of the industry means lots of opportunities to travel, network and expand your career possibilities. Aviation management and operations professionals also have the peace of mind of knowing they have strong salary prospects, job security in a growing industry and the prestige of being part of a field that fuels global progress and connection.

Curriculum

The aviation management and operations (AMO) specialization of the B.S. in aviation studies degree prioritizes an interdisciplinary approach to management and technology systems and how they’re leveraged to meet the demands of an ever-evolving aviation industry.  

The curriculum focuses on business aspects of the aviation industry, as well as flight management, technical systems operation and safety. Coursework covers:

• Aviation law
• Air traffic control regulations
• Construction
• Planning design
• Public relations
• Accounting
• Economics

The program is a total of 122 minimum credit hours, which includes two-to-three co-ops. Co-ops are full-time, semester-long professional internships (40 hours/week) directly related to your major.

We welcome students to the aviation management degree specialization from a diverse range of educational backgrounds and professional disciplines, such as general management, business and communications.

Required courses

Aviation studies student organizations

Build character, make connections and sharpen skills by getting involved in active aviation student organizations. 

Falcon Flight Team

The mission of the BGSU Flight Team is to promote all aspects of aviation excellence, including safety, skill development, education and career opportunities. We have demonstrated our skills through competition at the SAFECON national collegiate aviation competition for the past three years.

AAAE

The American Association of Airport Executives at BGSU is an excellent resource for those interested in a career in aviation management. Discover key connections, training and career opportunities, scholarships and more.

Aviation Ambassadors

This group of engaged aviation students help with Preview Days, Presidents Day, STEM Day and other recruitment activities on the BGSU campus, as well as off-campus activities such as college fairs and air shows.

Alpha Eta Rho (Beta Gamma Chapter)

Alpha Eta Rho (AHP) is the oldest professional aviation fraternity in history. The Bowling Green chapter comprises just some of the 50,000 alumni across the world. It strives to promote contact between the students of aviation and those engaged in the profession, while constantly improving aviation education and research in the field.

Women in Aviation: Bowling Green Chapter

The purpose of the Bowling Green chapter of International Women in Aviation is to foster networking while raising awareness of the accomplishments and contributions of women in the aviation industry. Benefits of membership include job search/opportunities, access to scholarships and mentors.

Aviation Learning Community 

The Aviation Learning Community provides students in all specializations of the aviation major with the opportunity to socialize, live and study with others who share their interests and experiences. The Aviation Community also offers an atmosphere that is conducive to students' early morning flight times and the demanding nature of aviation course work.